Liverpool’s influential midfielder Lucas Leiva is set to return to first-team action at the weekend after a three-month absence with a thigh injury, manager Brendan Rodgers said yesterday.

The Brazil international has not played for the Premier League club since Aug. 26 after suffering the injury in the warm-up to their game against Manchester City.

The 25-year-old holding midfielder, who missed six months of last season with a knee injury, played for the club’s U-21 team last week and will now come into contention for tomorrow’s home clash with Southampton.

“Lucas Leiva will return to the squad, which is great news because he’s been working very, very hard and played the reserve game last week,” Rodgers said.

“He’s very much looking forward to it. He’s worked tirelessly in his recovery. We’re just trying to nudge him along and make sure it’s the right time. Mentally he’s a tough boy.

“It’s a big boost because he’s well in tune with what we’re trying to do here. He’s been kicking his heels on the side wanting to help his mates and the group, so I am delighted to have him back.”